What makes a song catchy? Here’s the scientific answer

Everyone has a certain song that you just can’t help but sing along to whenever you hear it on the radio. But have you ever wondered why you want to sing? What makes a song “catchy”?

British researchers told The Daily Mail there are four keys to a hit: long and detailed musical phrases, multiple pitch changes in a song’s “hook,” male vocalists and higher male voices making a noticeable vocal effort.

One of the researchers, Dr. Daniel Mullensiefen, told The Daily Mail that musical hits rely on math, science, engineering and technology. “From the physics and frequencies of sound that determine pitch and harmony, to the hi-tech digital processors and synthesisers, which can add effects to make a song more catchy,” Mullensiefen said.

The researchers also used their conclusions to determine the catchiest songs of all time. (You can watch videos for all the songs below.)

What do you think of their list? Has science succeeded or sunk when it comes to singalong songs? (And how did the “Baywatch” theme make the list?)